A new Bear's Smokehouse has opened near Bradley International Airport in Windsor, CT

Having changed the dining habits of quite a few Hartfordites, who now crowd into his Arch Street location for lunch, show up for dinner with six-packs of beer or carry away family-sized orders for home, party or picnic, Jamie "The Bear" McDonald is now set on changing eating patterns around Bradley International Airport as well.

His new location, which opened at Routes 20 and 75 last December, seems a little larger than the capital location, though it lacks a loft. Both restaurants share something interesting in common — accessibility — with each situated at the end of an exit ramp off a freeway connector. It makes good sense if one's going to be bouncing back and forth between the two, as McDonald must. I actually prefer the newer location for its private parking and nearby package store.

McDonald plans to sell beer and wine, but is generous in allowing people to bring in the booze that best suits their taste. Combined with some of the best barbecue found anywhere, it's a heady formula. For those who haven't yet experienced Bear's smoking, McDonald is a Kansas City, Mo., native, Navy veteran and world-class competitive eater whose authentic barbecue exhibits both K.C. and Lone Star traits.

Especially with a touch of his spicy housemade Grizzly sauce, McDonald's mouthwatering ribs, brisket, pulled pork, sausage, chicken and burnt ends should unleash the bear in you. (A word of advice: The broccoli salad is the antidote to all that richness.) But if you really get carried away, you can take McDonald up on one of his eating challenges. In which case, it was nice knowing you because — you're gonna get smoked.